Northwestern State University recognized Air Force veteran Joseph Maggio during the Feb. 25 double header basketball game against the University of New Orleans. The university is recognizing veterans throughout the academic year for their service to the country.

Maggio served in the U.S. Air Force from 1950 to 1954. He trained at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, and Wichita Falls, Texas, before receiving advanced training at Eglin Air Force Base in Florida. In January 1952, he traveled aboard the USS Randolph to Japan where he transferred for duty in Korea.

From strategic air bases at Kusan and Teague, Korea, then Staff Sergeant Maggio served as an administrative and head clerk and processed personnel files and records including orders, transfers, and shipments supporting the war effort. For his service, he was awarded the Air Force Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Korean War Service Medal, the United Nations Service Medal and Presidential Korean Service Medal.

After a year tour in Korea, he returned to the United States via the USS Salem to settle back in Natchitoches with his honorable discharge. Maggio retired from Gulf Oil Corporation after 35 years with the company. He is a member of St. Charles Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus 4th Degree and the American Legion.

Maggio and his wife, Betty, have been married 62 years. They have four adult children and one deceased.

To nominate a veteran for recognition at an upcoming NSU event, please contact Sid Hall, NSU’s Military Affairs Coordinator, at halls@nsula.edu or (318) 357-6951.

Video of the presentation is available at youtube.com/watch?v=vQXOfW15rFc&feature=youtu.be